CHARLESTON -- Governor Joe Manchin announced Friday, Feb. 27 that nominations are now being accepted for the 2009 Governor’s Service Awards.The Governor’s Service Awards, which are annually coordinated by the West Virginia Commission for National and Community Service, recognize outstanding individuals, organizations and businesses for extraordinary service and commitment to their communities.

“Giving something back to the community continues to be one of the most effective ways to strengthen our state. The Mountain State is fortunate to have so many people who are willing to step forward and give of their time and resources,” Manchin said. “I encourage people to take the time to nominate an individual or business that has displayed an outstanding ability to reach out to others. This is an opportunity to honor those who give so much and expect so little in return,” said the governor.

Those individuals and groups that are selected as recipients of the Governor’s Service Award will receive recognition during a banquet at the state volunteerism conference, Faces of Leadership, on July 15 in Charleston. In addition, Volunteer West Virginia Inc. will also use private funds to donate $500 to a West Virginia charitable organization of the recipient’s choice. The organization must be a registered 501c3 in good standing with the Secretary of State’s office.

Nomination forms are available on the West Virginia Commission for National and Community Service’s web site, www.volunteerwv.org, or by calling (800) WV-HELPS. Nominations should be postmarked by April 3, 2009.